OVERVIEW:

• The Center for Nanoscale Science is a Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) supported by the National Science Foundation. The Center supports collaborative, interdisciplinary research efforts in the area of nanoscale materials and also organizes education and outreach efforts to share nanoscale science with the public.
• Please see their Education & Outreach website for contact information and other details: https://www.mrsec.psu.edu/content/education-outreach-programs

SERVICES/PROGRAMS OFFERED:

• Interdisciplinary Materials & Physics Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program: MRSEC faculty members host selected undergraduate students who contribute directly to ongoing research
• Interdisciplinary Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Program: Selected teachers participate in a six-week program where they get hands-on experience conducting nanoscience research with MRSEC faculty, participate in a mini-symposium, and develop curriculum based on their research topic
• MRSEC Outreach Teams (Graduate Students): Graduate students who participate in MRSEC research can join an Outreach Team to help plan tours, public outreach events, and K-12 teacher/student education efforts.

HOW TO COLLABORATE:

• Contact Kristin Dreyer, Program Director for Education and Outreach at kad4@psu.edu

PAST EXAMPLES OF COLLABORATION:

• MRSEC faculty have hosted undergraduate researchers (REU program) and K-12 researchers (RET program) as part of Broader Impacts activities for funded NSF grants